Overhead storage systems

ABSTRACT

Various aspects of the present disclosure provide various exemplary embodiments of systems and apparatus that can, for example, be used to suspend storage devices from supporting structure. In one exemplary embodiment, a system generally includes one or more shelf members and a framework configured to be coupled to supporting structure for suspending the one or more shelf members from the supporting structure. The framework can include at least two spaced-apart hanger members, at least one spanner member, and at least two elbows each having a generally vertical portion engagable with a corresponding one of the hanger members, and a generally horizontal portion engagable with the spanner member.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to overhead storage systems.

BACKGROUND

The statements in this background section merely provide backgroundinformation related to the present disclosure and may not constituteprior art.

Efficient and organized use of space is desirable, particularly withrespect to storage or utility space in workshops, garages, businesses,stores, homes, and apartments. With respect to overhead storage,particularly for residential use, different options are available. Onecommon example is the use of ventilated shelving (e.g., wire or plastic,and associated components) to construct units that can be supported fromoverhead structure. Typical ventilated shelving varies in size (e.g.,different lengths and widths, etc.) and configuration (e.g., differentwire mesh spacing, different number and arrangement of lateral andtransverse members, etc.).

SUMMARY

According to various aspects of the present disclosure, there areprovided various exemplary embodiments of systems and apparatus thatcan, for example, be used to suspend storage devices from supportingstructure. In one exemplary embodiment, a system generally includes oneor more shelf members and a framework configured to be coupled tosupporting structure for suspending the one or more shelf members fromthe supporting structure. The framework can include at least twospaced-apart hanger members, at least one spanner member, and at leasttwo elbows each having a generally vertical portion engagable with acorresponding one of the hanger members, and a generally horizontalportion engagable with the spanner member.

In another exemplary embodiment, a system generally includes one or moreshelf members having a plurality of wire members forming at least oneshelf deck and at least one wire member having at least a portiondisposed below the shelf deck. The system also includes a framework forsuspending the one or more shelf members from the supporting structure.The framework has at least two spaced-apart hanger members coupled tosupporting structure, at least one spanner member, and at least twoelbows. Each elbow includes a channel with a generally vertical portionengaged with a corresponding channel of a hanger member, and a generallyhorizontal portion engaged with a corresponding portion of a channel ofa spanner member. When the one or more shelf members are being supportedby the framework suspended from the supporting structure, the wiremember portion disposed below the shelf deck can cooperate with at leastone other portion of the one or more shelf members for operativelytrapping therebetween at least a portion of at least one of the spannermember and the elbows. This trapping can inhibit dislodging of the oneor more shelf members from the framework.

Other aspects of the present disclosure include apparatus configured tobe coupled to supporting structure for suspending one or more shelfmembers from the supporting structure. In one exemplary embodiment, anapparatus can generally include at least two spaced-apart hanger membersincluding generally C-shaped channels and at least one spanner memberincluding a generally C-shaped channel. The apparatus can furtherinclude at least two elbows including generally C-shaped channels havinggenerally vertical portions configured for sliding engagement with thehanger member channels, and generally horizontal portions configured forsliding engagement with the spanner member channel. The apparatus canprovide at least one support surface for supporting one or more shelfmembers thereon when the hanger members are coupled to supportingstructure and the elbows are engaged with the hanger members and thespanner member.

Further aspects of the present disclosure include systems generallyincluding one or more shelf members having a plurality of wire membersforming a shelf deck, generally vertical wire segments extendingdownwardly relative to the shelf deck, and at least one generallyhorizontal rod member connected to the generally vertical wire segments.In one particular embodiment, the system can also include a frameworkconfigured to be coupled to supporting structure for suspending the oneor more shelf members from the supporting structure. The framework caninclude at least two spaced-apart hanger members, at least one spannermember, and at least two elbows each having a generally vertical portionengagable with a corresponding one of the hanger members, and agenerally horizontal portion engagable with the spanner member. When theone or more shelf members are supported by the framework suspended fromthe supporting structure, at least one of the generally vertical wiresegments and generally horizontal rod member can be disposed relative toat least one of the spanner member and elbows for creating a snap-fitconnection therewith. This snap-fit connection can inhibit dislodging ofthe one or more shelf members from the framework.

Further aspects and features of the present disclosure will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. Inaddition, any one or more aspects of the present disclosure may beimplemented individually or in any combination with any one or more ofthe other aspects of the present disclosure. It should be understoodthat the detailed description and specific examples, while indicatingexemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, are intended forpurposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope ofthe present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and arenot intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a framework shown supporting two shelvesaccording to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one of the two assemblies of theframework shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is another perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 2;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are perspective views of an end portion of a hangermember of the assembly shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 and also illustratingexemplary components that can be used for mounting the hanger member tosupporting structure according to exemplary embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the hanger member end portion shown inFIGS. 4A and 4B with one of the bushings removed for clarity;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the hanger member'send portion shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 but with the bushings, clevis pin,cotter pin, and eyebolt exploded away from the hanger member's endportion for clarity;

FIG. 7 is an elevation view of a hanger member of the assembly shown inFIGS. 2 and 3 and illustrating fastener holes that can provide providingmultiple locations for selectively attaching the hanger member toanother component;

FIG. 8 is another elevation view of the hanger member shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing one of the elbows of the assemblyshown in FIGS. 2 and 3;

FIG. 10 is an elevation view of the elbow shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a view looking into the spanner member channel of theassembly shown in FIGS. 2 and 3;

FIG. 12 is a view showing a generally C-shaped channel which may bedefined by one or more framework components according to exemplaryembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one of the two exemplary shelves shownin FIG. 1 according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is an upper plan view of the shelf shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is an elevation view of the shelf shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15A is an elevation view of a portion of the shelf shown in FIG.15;

FIG. 16 is an elevation view of the shelf shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 16A is an elevation view of a portion of the shelf shown in FIG.16;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an exemplary manner in which shelfportions may be engaged with a spanner member according to exemplaryembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17A is a perspective view showing an exemplary manner in whichshelf portions may be engaged with an elbow member according toexemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another exemplary shelf that may besuspended from supporting structure by the framework shown in FIG. 1according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another exemplary shelf that may besuspended from supporting structure by the framework shown in FIG. 1according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another exemplary shelf that may besuspended from supporting structure by the framework shown in FIG. 1according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no wayintended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses.

According to various aspects of the present disclosure, there areprovided various exemplary embodiments of systems and apparatus thatcan, for example, be used to suspend storage devices from supportingstructure. In one exemplary embodiment, a system generally includes oneor more shelf members and a framework configured to be coupled tosupporting structure for suspending the one or more shelf members fromthe supporting structure. The framework can include at least twospaced-apart hanger members, at least one spanner member, and at leasttwo elbows each having a generally vertical portion engagable with acorresponding one of the hanger members, and a generally horizontalportion engagable with the spanner member.

In another exemplary embodiment, a system generally includes one or moreshelf members having a plurality of wire members forming at least oneshelf deck and at least one wire member having at least a portiondisposed below the shelf deck. The system also includes a framework forsuspending the one or more shelf members from the supporting structure.The framework has at least two spaced-apart hanger members coupled tosupporting structure, at least one spanner member, and at least twoelbows. Each elbow includes a channel with a generally vertical portionengaged with a corresponding channel of a hanger member, and a generallyhorizontal portion engaged with a corresponding portion of a channel ofa spanner member. When the one or more shelf members are being supportedby the framework suspended from the supporting structure, the wiremember portion disposed below the shelf deck can cooperate with at leastone other portion of the one or more shelf members for operativelytrapping therebetween at least a portion of at least one of the spannermember and the elbows. This trapping can inhibit dislodging of the oneor more shelf members from the framework.

Other aspects of the present disclosure include apparatus configured tobe coupled to supporting structure for suspending one or more shelfmembers from the supporting structure. In one exemplary embodiment, anapparatus can generally include at least two spaced-apart hanger membersincluding generally C-shaped channels and at least one spanner memberincluding a generally C-shaped channel. The apparatus can furtherinclude at least two elbows including generally C-shaped channels havinggenerally vertical portions configured for sliding engagement with thehanger member channels, and generally horizontal portions configured forsliding engagement with the spanner member channel. The apparatus canprovide at least one support surface for supporting one or more shelfmembers thereon when the hanger members are coupled to supportingstructure and the elbows are engaged with the hanger members and thespanner member.

Further aspects of the present disclosure include systems generallyincluding one or more shelf members having a plurality of wire membersforming a shelf deck, generally vertical wire segments extendingdownwardly relative to the shelf deck, and at least one generallyhorizontal rod member connected to the generally vertical wire segments.In one particular embodiment, the system can also include a frameworkconfigured to be coupled to supporting structure for suspending the oneor more shelf members from the supporting structure. The framework caninclude at least two spaced-apart hanger members, at least one spannermember, and at least two elbows each having a generally vertical portionengagable with a corresponding one of the hanger members, and agenerally horizontal portion engagable with the spanner member. When theone or more shelf members are supported by the framework suspended fromthe supporting structure, at least one of the generally vertical wiresegments and generally horizontal rod member can be disposed relative toat least one of the spanner member and elbows for creating a snap-fitconnection therewith. This snap-fit connection can inhibit dislodging ofthe one or more shelf members from the framework.

Additional aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods ofsuspending storage devices, such as racks, shelving, etc. fromsupporting structure. In one particular embodiment in which a frameworkincludes one or more hanger members, elbows, and spanner members, amethod generally includes slidingly engaging channels defined by thehanger members with channels defined by the generally vertical portionsof the elbows. The method can also include slidingly engaging channelsdefined by the generally horizontal portions of the elbows with achannel defined by the spanner member. The method can further includecoupling the hanger members to supporting structure, and supporting oneor more storage devices along at least a portion of at least one of thespanner member and the generally horizontal elbow portions.

In various embodiments, the method can also include selectivelyadjusting the height or vertical location of the connection between thehanger members and elbows, to thereby raise or lower the shelf members.In various embodiments, the method can include selectively adjusting thehorizontal positioning of the connection between the elbows and thespanner member, to thereby increase or decrease the overall shelf widththat can be supported by the framework.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 through 3, there is shown one exemplaryembodiment of an overhead storage system 100 embodying one or moreaspects of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the system 100includes a framework 104 configured to be coupled to supportingstructure (e.g., ceiling or overhead structural components, trusses,rafters, etc.) for suspending any of a wide range of storage devicesfrom the supporting structure. Exemplary storage devices that can besuspended from supporting structure by the framework 104 generallyinclude racks, baskets, bins, shelves, trays, buckets, among othercontainers and storage devices.

By way of example only, FIG. 1 illustrates the framework 104 being usedin combination with two wire shelves 108 (also shown in FIGS. 13 through16). In other embodiments, however, a framework (e.g., 104, etc.) can beused to support other shelving structures and storage devices, such as abasket, bin, and/or one or more of the shelves 208 (FIG. 18), 308 (FIG.19), 408 (FIG. 20), combinations thereof, etc.

FIG. 1 illustrates the framework 104 being used to support two shelves108. But other embodiments include frameworks (e.g., 104, etc.) that areused to support only one storage device or more than two storagedevices. In embodiments in which a framework is supporting two or morestorage devices, the framework may be used to support substantiallyidentical or different storage devices.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 through 3, the illustratedembodiment of the framework 104 includes two assemblies 112 disposedadjacent the shelf front and back edge portions 166 and 168. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3, the assemblies 112 include hanger members 116, elbows120, and spanner members 124. In other embodiments, however, any ofthese framework components may be made integral with another component.For example, other embodiments include a hanger member and an elbowintegrally or monolithically formed as a single component. Additionally,or alternatively, an elbow and a spanner member can be integrally ormonolithically formed as a single component.

A wide range of materials and manufacturing processes can be used forthe various framework components 116, 120, 124. Exemplary materialsinclude metals, alloys, plastics, composites, high density foammaterials, combinations thereof, etc. Further, the same material ormaterials do not need to be used for each component.

In the illustrated embodiment, each hanger member 116, elbow 120, andspanner member 124 includes a channel. FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplaryC-shaped channel 127 that may be defined by one or more of thesecomponents 116, 120, and 124. In other embodiments, one or more of thehanger members 116, elbows 120, and spanner members 124 may include achannel having a configuration (e.g., size, shape, etc.) different thanwhat is shown in the figures. Or, for example, one or more of thecomponents 116, 120, 124 may not include any channel. In addition, thechannel defined by a particular framework component need not have thesame configuration, but may, for example, vary in size and/or shapealong the length of the component. For example, one particularembodiment includes an elbow with a vertical portion having a channelwith a different configuration (e.g., size, shape, etc.) than thechannel defined by the elbow's horizontal portion.

In the illustrated embodiment, the hanger member channels 128 areconfigured (e.g., sized, shaped, etc.) to at least partially receivetherein the channels 132 defined by the generally vertical portions 136of the elbows 120. Accordingly, the vertical portion 136 of an elbow 120can slide or nest at least partially within the channel 128 of acorresponding hanger member 116. In alternative embodiments, however,the sliding or nesting arrangement may be reversed such that thevertical portions of the elbows include channels configured (e.g.,sized, shaped, etc.) for at least partially receiving therein channelsdefined by the hanger members.

The nesting arrangement in combination with the fastener holes 140 (FIG.7) of the hanger members 116 and fastener hole 144 (FIG. 9) of thevertical elbow portion 136 allow selective vertical adjustment to thelocations at which the hanger members 116 are attached to the elbows120. The fastener holes 140 provide multiple vertical locations forselectively attaching the hanger members 116 to the elbows 120 with oneor more fasteners 145 (FIGS. 2 and 3). The fasteners 145 may compriseany of a wide range of suitable fasteners, including nut-and-boltassemblies, among other suitable mechanical fasteners.

Accordingly, various embodiments allow selective vertical adjustment tothe height at which the one or more shelf members are suspended by theframework 104 relative to the supporting structure. By way of example, auser can decrease the distance that the shelves 108 are suspended awayfrom the supporting structure by the framework 104 (and thus raise theheight of the shelves 108 relative to the ground) by positioning more ofthe vertical elbow portions 136 within the hanger member channels 128,and using higher holes 140 for the fasteners 145. Conversely, a user mayincrease the distance that the shelves 108 are suspended away from thesupporting structure by the framework 104 (and thus lower the shelfheight relative to the ground) by positioning less of the vertical elbowportions 136 within the hanger member channels 128, and using lowerholes 140 for the fasteners 145.

FIG. 7 shows the hanger member 116 having twelve holes 140. Inalternative embodiments, however, the hanger members can have more orless than twelve holes, can have differently configured (e.g., shaped,sized, arranged in different patterns, etc.) openings, and/or can beprovided with other means for selectively engaging the hanger membersand elbows at varying heights. By way of example, other embodiments caninclude hanger members having more holes than what are shown in thefigures, for example, for increased adjustability and/or utility.

FIG. 9 shows the vertical elbow portion 136 having a single hole 144. Inalternative embodiments, however, the elbows can have more or lessholes, can have differently configured (e.g., shaped, sized, arranged indifferent patterns, etc.) openings, and/or can be provided with othermeans for selectively engaging the elbows and hanger members at varyingheights. By way of example, other embodiments include elbows having moreholes than what are shown in the figures, which can provide increasedadjustability and/or utility.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the spanner member channels 148 areconfigured (e.g., sized, shaped, etc.) to at least partially receivetherein the channels 152 defined by the generally horizontal portions156 of the elbows 120. Accordingly, the horizontal portion 156 of anelbow 120 can slide or nest at least partially within the channel 148 ofa spanner member 124. In alternative embodiments, however, the slidingor nesting arrangement may be reversed such that the horizontal elbowportions include channels configured (e.g., sized, shaped, etc.) for atleast partially receiving therein corresponding channels defined by aspanner member.

The nesting arrangement in combination with the fastener holes 160 (FIG.9) of the horizontal elbow portions 156 and fastener holes 164 (FIG. 11)of the spanner members 124 allow selective horizontal adjustment to thelocations at which the spanner members 124 are attached to the elbows120. The fastener holes 160 and 164 provide multiple horizontallocations for selectively attaching the spanner members 124 to theelbows 120 with one or more fasteners 165 (FIGS. 2 and 3). The fasteners165 may comprise any of a wide range of suitable fasteners, which canprovide including nut-and-bolt assemblies, among other suitablemechanical fasteners.

Accordingly, various embodiments allow selective horizontal adjustmentto the spaced distance separating the hanger members 116. For example, auser can decrease the distance separating the hanger members 116 (andthus decrease the overall shelf width that can be accommodated by theframework 104) by positioning more of the horizontal elbow portions 156within the spanner member channel 148, and then using the correspondingholes 160 and 164 for the fasteners 165. Conversely, a user may increasethe distance separating the hanger members 116 (and thus increase theoverall shelf width that can be accommodated by the framework 104) bypositioning less of the horizontal elbow portions 156 within the spannermember channels 148, and using the corresponding holes 160 and 164 forthe fasteners 165. For example, the user may increase the distanceseparating the hanger members 116 in order to support one or more widershelves, and/or to increase the number of shelves that can be supportedby the framework 104.

FIG. 9 shows the horizontal elbow portion 156 having two holes 160. Inalternative embodiments, however, the elbows can have more or less holesand/or have differently configured (e.g., shaped, sized, arranged indifferent patterns, etc.) openings and/or be provided with other meansfor selectively engaging the spanner member to the elbows at varyinghorizontal locations. By way of example, other embodiments can includeelbows having more holes than what are shown in the figures, forexample, for increased adjustability and/or utility.

Likewise, FIG. 11 shows the spanner member 124 having two holes 164along each end portion thereof. Alternative embodiments can includespanner members having more or less holes and/or having differentlyconfigured (e.g., shaped, sized, arranged in different patterns, etc.)openings and/or having other means for selectively engaging the elbowsand spanner members at varying horizontal locations. By way of example,other embodiments can include spanner members having more holes thanwhat are shown in the figures, for example, to increase adjustabilityand/or utility.

FIG. 1 illustrates the framework 104 with two assemblies 112 disposed toprovide support along the front and back shelf edge portions 166 and168. Other embodiments include frameworks with more or less than twoassemblies. Still further embodiments include frameworks configured(e.g., having other components, and/or spaced relative to the shelves108) to provide support at one or more alternative or additional shelflocations, such as along a side edge and/or at an intermediate portion.Additional embodiments include frameworks having more than twoassemblies 112, for example, to provide additional support forsubstantially heavy shelf loads.

FIG. 1 illustrates the framework assemblies 112 positioned relative tothe shelves 108 such that the spanner members 112 are generally parallelwith the front and back shelf edge portions 166 and 168. In otherembodiments, however, one or more assemblies may be positioned relativeto a shelf such that the spanner member is not generally parallel (e.g.,generally transverse, diagonal, etc.) to a shelf's front or back edgeportions.

FIG. 1 further illustrates the spaced-apart hanger members 116 andgenerally vertical elbow portions 136 positioned adjacent generallyopposing edge portions of the shelf deck 170 formed by the grid oflateral and longitudinal wire members 172 of the shelves 108. In otherembodiments, however, the generally vertical elbow portions 136 and/orhanger members 116 may be positioned or inserted through the generallyrectangular shaped openings defined between the wire members 172. Insuch embodiments, portions of the shelf deck 170 would be disposedoutside of the space defined between the hanger members 116.

FIGS. 4 through 6 illustrate various exemplary components or hardwarethat may be used for coupling the hanger members 116 to supportingstructures according to one or more embodiments of the presentdisclosure. In the particular illustrated embodiment, the hanger members116 can be coupled to supporting structure by eyebolts 174. The eyebolts174 can be attached to the hanger members 116 in various ways, and oneexemplary way will now be described.

As shown in FIG. 6, the upper end portions 176 of the hanger members 116can include openings 178. An eyebolt 174 can be coupled to the upper endportion 176 of a hanger member 116 by a clevis pin 180 as follows. Theend portion 181 of the clevis pin 180 is inserted into one of theopenings 178, through an opening 182 of a bushing component 183, throughthe eye portion 184 of the eyebolt 174, through an opening 182 ofanother bushing component 182, and then through the other opening 178 ofthe hanger member 116. A cotter pin 185 is inserted into the opening 186of the clevis pin 180, to thereby secure the clevis pin 180 within theopenings 178 of the hanger member 116, and, accordingly, also secure theeyebolt 174 and bushing components 183 to the hanger member 116.

The eyebolts 174, in turn, can be threaded (or otherwise attached) tosupporting structure. In this exemplary manner, the hanger members 116can thus be coupled to the supporting structure. Alternatively, othersuitable components and methods may instead be used for coupling thehanger members 116 to supporting structure.

By using eyebolts (e.g., 174, etc.) for connecting a framework (e.g.,104, etc.) and its components (e.g., hanger members 116) to supportingstructure, various embodiments can allow for good versatility in theinstallation process. Eyebolts can aid in the alignment of the hardwareas well as accommodate for uneven or non-level mounting surfaces, suchas uneven ceilings, vaulted ceilings, and cathedral ceilings. Eyeboltscan also be relatively easily installed with layman's tools. Further,bushings can also be used in exemplary embodiments at the connections ofthe eyebolts to the hanger members, for example, to provide a relativelysnug fit, to inhibit rattling, and/or to inhibit swaying of the system100.

When the various components 116, 120, and 124 are assembled to form theframework 104 as shown in FIG. 1, the spanner member 124 and generallyhorizontal portions 156 of the elbows 120 can provide a generallyhorizontal support surface for supporting the one or more shelf members108 thereon. Accordingly, the elbows 120 and spanner members 124 (whenassembled between the elbows 120) can carry and distribute the shelfload to the eyebolts 174 (or other suitable means connecting the hangermembers 116 to supporting structure). The eyebolts 174, in turn, canthen transfer that load to the supporting structure.

As noted herein, FIGS. 13 through 20 illustrate exemplary shelves 108(FIGS. 13 through 16), 208 (FIG. 18), 308 (FIG. 19), and 408 (FIG. 20).Any one or more of these shelves 108, 208, 308, 408 can be suspended(individually or in any combination with any one or more of the othershelves) from supporting structure by one or more embodiments of aframework (e.g., 104, etc.) of the present disclosure.

With further reference to FIG. 13, the shelf 108 includes wire or rodmembers 172 that form a deck or support surface 170 on which articlescan be stored. The shelf 108 also includes generally vertical flanges ordownwardly extending portions 187 along the front and back edge portions166 and 168. These shelf portions 187 can include a wire or rod member188 disposed below the shelf deck 170.

The rod member 188 can be connected (e.g., welded, glued, adhesivelybonded, mechanically fastened, etc.) to generally vertical wire segments189. In the particular illustrated embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 through16, wire members 172 extend generally between the shelf's front and backedge portions 166 and 168. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 16A, these wiremembers 172 also extend and cascade downwardly to connect to the lowerrod member 188. Accordingly, in this particular embodiment, thegenerally vertical wire segments 189 comprise downwardly bent or formedportions of wire members 172. Alternative embodiments, however, includegenerally vertical wire segments that comprise separate wire components,which are not integral with (but may be separately attached to) the wiremembers extending between the front and back edge portions of the shelf.

With continued reference to FIGS. 13 through 16, the shelf 108 alsoincludes generally vertical flanges or downwardly extending portions 190along the side edge portions 191 of the shelf 108. These flange portions190 can include upper, lower and intermediate wire or rod members 192,193, 194 (FIG. 15A). In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 15A, the rodmembers 192, 193, 194 are shown in the same vertical plane. In otherembodiments, however, one or more of the rod members 192, 193, 194 maybe in a different vertical plane than one or more of the other rodmembers.

The upper, lower, and intermediate rod members 192, 193, 194 can beconnected (e.g., welded, glued, adhesively bonded, mechanicallyfastened, etc.) to generally vertical wire segments 195. In thisparticular embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 through 16, wire members 172extend generally between the side edge portions 191 of the shelf 108. Asshown in FIGS. 13 and 15A, these wire members 172 also extend over theupper rod member 192 and cascade downwardly to connect to theintermediate and lower rod members 194 and 193. Accordingly, in thisparticular embodiment, the generally vertical wire segments 195 comprisedownwardly bent or formed portions of wire members 172. Alternativeembodiments, however, include generally vertical wire segments thatcomprise separate wire components, which are not integral with (but maybe separately attached to) the wire members extending between the frontand back edge portions of the shelf.

FIGS. 17 and 17A illustrate an exemplary manner in which the shelfportions 187 and 190 can be engaged with one or more of the componentsof the framework 104. In various embodiments, one or more of the wiremembers 188, 189, 192, 193, 194, 195 may be configured (e.g., sized,shaped, located, etc.) for clamping and creating a snap-fit withportions of the framework 104, such as the spanner member 124 (FIG. 17)or elbows 120 (FIG. 17A).

In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 17, the lower wire members188 and generally vertical wire segments 189 adjacent the shelf's frontand rear edge portions 166 and 168 are configured (e.g., sized, shaped,located, etc.) to cam over and operatively trap the spanner channels 124for creating a snap-fit connection or interference fit with the spannerchannels 124. With continued reference to FIG. 17, the flange portion187 can cooperate with the flange portion 190 whereby the flange portion187 cams over the spanner channel 124 for operatively trapping thespanner channel 124 generally between the flange portions 187 and 190,which, in turn, may create a snap-fit connection therewith. As shown inFIG. 17A, the wire members 188 and generally vertical wire segments 189can also (or alternatively) create a snap-fit connection with thehorizontal elbow portions 156. These snap-fitting features can inhibitthe shelf 108 from dislodging off the framework 104, for example, whenthe shelf 108 is bumped, loaded, and/or unloaded.

In addition (or as an alternative) to forming snap-fitting connections,various embodiments include the flange portions 187 acting as stops forinhibiting movement of the shelf 108 relative to the framework 104. Forexample, and as shown in FIG. 1, the flange portions 187 adjacent theshelf's front and back edge portions 166, 168 can cooperate forinhibiting respective forward and rearward movement of the shelf 108relative to the framework 104. When the shelf 108 is supported by theframework 104 as shown in FIG. 1, the flange portion 187 adjacent theshelf's forward edge portion 166 can function as a stop that inhibitsforward movement of the shelf 108 relative to the framework 104, whilethe flange portion 187 adjacent the shelf rearward edge portion 168 canfunction as a stop that inhibits rearward movement of the shelf 108relative to the framework 104.

With reference now to FIG. 17A, wire members 188 and 189 of flangeportion 187 can cooperate with the wire members 192, 193, 194, 195 offlange portion 190 for trapping the elbow 120 between flange portions187 and 190. For example, the wire members 189 and 190 can function as astop that inhibits forward movement of the shelf 108 relative to theelbow 120, while the wire members 192, 193, 194, 195 can function as astop that inhibits rearward movement of the shelf 108 relative to theelbow 120. Accordingly, this trapping can inhibit the shelf 108 fromdislodging, for example, when the shelf 108 is bumped, loaded, and/orunloaded. This trapping in combination with gravity can help maintainthe shelf positioning relative to the framework 104.

In FIGS. 1 and 17, two shelves 108 are shown supported adjacent oneanother. In other embodiments, a framework (e.g., 104, etc.) can be usedto support two or more shelf members with the shelf members abutting oneanother. Still further embodiments include frameworks (e.g., 104, etc.)that are used to support two or more shelf members that are spaced apartfrom one another. In addition, FIGS. 1 and 17 show two shelves beingsupported by the framework 104 for purposes of illustration only, asother embodiments can include frameworks for supporting any suitablenumber of (i.e., one or more) storage devices depending, for example, onthe particular application.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure can be mounted to a widerange of supporting structure, including ceiling trusses, rafters, etc.Accordingly, the specific references to supporting structure hereinshould not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosureto mounting to any one specific form/type of structural components orlocation thereof.

Various aspects of the present disclosure can be used with a widevariety of storage devices. Accordingly, the specific references toshelves herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of thepresent disclosure to use with only one specific form/type of storagedevice. For example, the figures show only particular examples of wireshelves 108 (FIG. 13), 208 (FIG. 18), 308 (FIG. 19), 408 (FIG. 20) thatcan be suspended by one or more of the frameworks of the presentdisclosure. Other embodiments include frameworks that can be used with awide range of other storage devices besides what is shown in thefigures, including shelves in different sizes (e.g., four foot, sixfoot, eight foot, ten foot, and/or cut to a custom size, etc.), havingdifferent depths and widths, without vertical flange portions, withdifferent wire sizing, with different spacing between the wire members,combinations thereof, etc. Further embodiments of the present disclosurecan also be used with shelves having wires or rods oriented generallylongitudinally, transversely, diagonally, etc. relative to the shelf.Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure should not be limited touse with any specific form/type of shelf. Indeed, aspects of the presentdisclosure should also not be limited to just shelving as embodiments ofthe present disclosure can also be used for suspending a wide range ofother storage devices, including racks, wire baskets, wire bins,shelves, trays, buckets, among other containers and storage devices.

Further, the particular methods and geometries disclosed herein areexemplary in nature and are not to be considered limiting. The steps,processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed asnecessarily requiring their performance in the particular orderdiscussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order orperformance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternativesteps may be employed. In addition, any one or more aspects of thepresent disclosure may be implemented individually or in any combinationwith any one or more of the other aspects of the present disclosure.

Certain terminology is used herein for purposes of reference only, andthus is not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper”,“lower”, “above”, and “below” refer to directions in the drawings towhich reference is made. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “bottom”and “side”, describe the orientation of portions of the component withina consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear byreference to the text and the associated drawings describing thecomponent under discussion. Such terminology may include the wordsspecifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similarimport. Similarly, the terms “first”, “second” and other such numericalterms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unlessclearly indicated by the context.

When introducing elements or features of the present disclosure and theexemplary embodiments, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” areintended to mean that there are one or more of such elements orfeatures. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intendedto be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements orfeatures other than those specifically noted.

The description of the present disclosure is merely exemplary in natureand, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the presentdisclosure are intended to be within the scope of the presentdisclosure. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure fromthe spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

1. A system comprising: one or more shelf members having a plurality ofwire members forming at least one shelf deck and at least one wiremember having at least a portion disposed below the shelf deck; aframework for suspending the one or more shelf members from thesupporting structure, the framework including: at least two spaced-aparthanger members coupled to the supporting structure, each said hangermember including a channel; at least one spanner member including achannel; at least two elbows each including a channel with a generallyvertical portion engaged with a corresponding one of the hanger memberchannels, and a generally horizontal portion engaged with acorresponding portion of the spanner member channel; whereby, when theone or more shelf members are being supported by the framework suspendedfrom the supporting structure, the wire member portion disposed belowthe shelf deck cooperates with at least one other portion of the one ormore shelf members for operatively trapping therebetween at least aportion of at least one of the spanner member and the elbows therebyinhibiting dislodging of the one or more shelf members from theframework.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the hanger members, spannermember, and elbows include generally C-shaped channels.
 3. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the hanger member channels are configured for slidingengagement with the elbow channels, and wherein the elbow channels areconfigured for sliding engagement with the spanner member channel. 4.The system of claim 1, wherein the elbows are configured to be at leastpartially received within the hanger member channels, and wherein theelbows are configured to be at least partially received within thespanner member channel.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein at least oneof the hanger members and elbows include a plurality of fastener holesproviding multiple locations for selectively attaching the hangermembers to the elbows, whereby the fastener holes allow selectiveadjustment to the height at which the one or more shelf members aresuspended by the framework relative to the supporting structure.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein at least one of the spanner member and elbowsinclude a plurality of faster holes providing multiple locations forselectively attaching the elbows to the spanner member, whereby thefastener holes allow selective adjustment to the overall shelf widththat can be accommodated by the framework.
 7. The system of claim 1,wherein the framework comprises a first assembly and a second assemblyspaced apart from the first assembly, each said first and secondassembly including at least two of said hanger members, at least one ofsaid spanner member, and at least two of said elbows.
 8. The system ofclaim 1, further comprising eyebolts coupling the hanger members to thesupporting structure.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the hangermembers include openings, and wherein the eyebolts are coupled to thehanger members by clevis pins within said openings and cotter pinssecuring the clevis pins within the openings.
 10. The system of claim 9,further comprising bushings disposed generally between correspondingportions of the hanger members and eyebolts.
 11. The system of claim 1,wherein the one or more shelf members include generally vertical wiresegments and at least one generally horizontal rod member connected tothe generally vertical wire segments, and wherein at least one of thegenerally vertical wire segments and generally horizontal rod member aredisposed relative to at least one of the spanner member and elbows forcreating a snap-fit connection, whereby the snap-fit connection inhibitsdislodging of the one or more shelf members from the framework.
 12. Anapparatus configured to be coupled to supporting structure forsuspending one or more shelf members from the supporting structure, theapparatus comprising: at least two spaced-apart hanger members includinggenerally C-shaped channels; at least one spanner member including agenerally C-shaped channel; and at least two elbows including generallyC-shaped channels having generally vertical portions configured forsliding engagement with the hanger member channels, and generallyhorizontal portions configured for sliding engagement with the spannermember channel; whereby the apparatus provides at least one supportsurface for supporting one or more shelf members thereon when the hangermembers are coupled to supporting structure and the elbows are engagedwith the hanger members and the spanner member.
 13. The apparatus ofclaim 12, wherein the elbows are configured to be at least partiallyreceived within the hanger member channels, and wherein the elbows areconfigured to be at least partially received within the spanner memberchannel.
 14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein at least one of thehanger members and elbows include a plurality of fastener holesproviding multiple locations for selectively attaching the hangermembers to the elbows.
 15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein at leastone of the spanner member and elbows include a plurality of faster holesproviding multiple locations for selectively attaching the elbows to thespanner member.
 16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the apparatuscomprises a first assembly and a second assembly spaced apart from thefirst assembly, each said first and second assembly including at leasttwo of said hanger members, at least one of said spanner member, and atleast two of said elbows.
 17. The apparatus of claim 12, furthercomprising eyebolts for coupling the hanger members to supportingstructure.
 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the hanger membersinclude openings, and wherein the eyebolts are coupled to the hangermembers by clevis pins within said openings and cotter pins securing theclevis pins within the openings.
 19. The apparatus of claim 18, furthercomprising bushings disposed generally between corresponding portions ofthe hanger members and eyebolts.
 20. A system comprising: one or moreshelf members having a plurality of wire members forming a shelf deck,generally vertical wire segments extending downwardly relative to theshelf deck, and at least one generally horizontal rod member connectedto the generally vertical wire segments; a framework configured to becoupled to supporting structure for suspending the one or more shelfmembers from the supporting structure, the framework including: at leasttwo spaced-apart hanger members; at least one spanner member; at leasttwo elbows each having a generally vertical portion engagable with acorresponding one of the hanger members, and a generally horizontalportion engagable with the spanner member; whereby, when the one or moreshelf members are supported by the framework suspended from thesupporting structure, at least one of the generally vertical wiresegments and generally horizontal rod member are disposed relative to atleast one of the spanner member and elbows for creating a snap-fitconnection therewith for inhibiting dislodging of the one or more shelfmembers from the framework.
 21. The system of claim 20, wherein thegenerally horizontal rod member is disposed below the shelf deck, andwherein the generally horizontal rod member cooperates with the shelfdeck for operatively trapping therebetween at least one of the spannermember and elbows, whereby the trapping inhibits dislodging of the oneor more shelf members from the framework.
 22. The system of claim 20,wherein the one or more shelf members include generally vertical wiresegments and at least one generally horizontal rod member adjacent firstand second edge portions of the one or more shelf members and configuredfor cooperatively creating the snap-fit connection.
 23. The system ofclaim 22, wherein the framework comprises first and second assembliesadjacent the respective first and second edge portions of the one ormore shelf members, each said first and second assembly including atleast two of said hanger members, at least one of said spanner member,and at least two of said elbows, wherein the generally vertical wiresegments and generally horizontal rod member adjacent the first edgeportion are disposed along a first side portion of the first assembly,and wherein the generally vertical wire segments and generallyhorizontal rod member adjacent the second edge portion are disposedalong a second side portion of the second assembly generally oppositethe first side portion.
 24. The system of claim 20, wherein the hangermembers, spanner member, and elbows include generally C-shaped channels.25. The system of claim 24, wherein the elbows are configured to be atleast partially received within the hanger member channels, and whereinthe elbows are configured to be at least partially received within thespanner member channel.